Students enrolled in graduate programs at Rice University are invited to compete in the first campuswide Graduate Student Elevator Pitch Competition, scheduled for April 12 from 5 to 10 p.m. in Duncan Hall’s McMurtry Auditorium.

The competition is an opportunity for Rice graduate students to practice sharing their research and educational pursuits with others in 90 seconds or less. The event is the first of its kind open to all students enrolled in Rice graduate programs. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three participants — $500 for first place, $300 for second and $200 for third.

“Whether you are trying to fundraise, promote your research or simply define yourself, it’s important to communicate your main points in a short, succinct manner,” said Arnaud Chevallier, associate vice provost of academic affairs and graduate studies. “We hope the competition will positively impact the communication skills of our students and provide an example of the development opportunities available through graduate studies at Rice. We also want the event to showcase the world-class research happening here and develop collaborations across our schools and with external partners.”

Students will make their presentations in front of a panel of judges and an audience of students, faculty, staff, alumni, community members and prospective employers.

Students interested in competing must register and submit a brief abstract of a pitch online at www.graduate.rice.edu/elevatorpitch by Feb. 22. Participation is limited to the first 50 registrants.